Joanne Jones

About Joanne:

Valparaiso resident with two daughters and two grandchildren.

Bachelor's degree in education from Valparaiso University.

Master's degree in education from Valparaiso University.

Retired in 1997 from Valparaiso Community Schools with 24 years of service.

Member of Immanuel Lutheran Church.

Accomplishments: Joanne Jones started volunteering at Porter Hospital after she retired. A member of the auxiliary for almost 11 years, she volunteers every Tuesday and every other Saturday at the information desk, and in the gift shop when needed. At the front desk, Jones helps visitors by giving out room numbers, passes and directions. On Tuesday morning, when there is no hospitality person, she may deliver flowers to patient rooms. "That's a fun thing to do," she said. "Everyone loves getting flowers." In the gift shop she helps customers with sales and makes suggestions when called upon. "I enjoy being around people and I think it's good to give back," she said. "I think we live in a wonderful community and I really enjoy being there. I get a lot of pleasure out of it and we have a lot of wonderful volunteers, the kind of people you would like as a friend." Jones continues her service at church, where she plays in the hand bell choir and sings in the vocal choir. She is part of

the altar guild and banner committee, and is a confirmant mentor. Jones attends services and two Bible studies.

What is most rewarding about volunteering? "A feeling of giving back and being a good citizen. I think it's important for everyone to be a good citizen. Do something nice for someone each day. If you put a smile on someone's face, it's wonderful."

Personal hero: "My daughters. I have two daughters and I'm so proud of them. They're kind, caring, generous, thoughtful people."

What I read: "Most of my reading is nonfiction. I read periodicals and magazines about health and investments. I'm a basket weaver, I crochet and sew, play bridge and love reading to children."

Advice: "Be a good citizen. Try to do something nice for someone each day."

How to get involved: For information on volunteer opportunities with Porter Hospital, call (219) 465-4600.

- SUE BERO, Times Correspondent

To nominate someone for this feature, e-mail slbero@hotmail.com